Suicide Prevention: 4 Ways Mental Health Professionals Can Help

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Medically Reviewed by Mark Hrymoc, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, double-board certified in General & Addiction Psychiatry Suicide is a complex and sensitive topic that touches many lives. It’s essential to approach this subject with empathy and understanding, recognizing that those who struggle with suicidal thoughts often feel isolated and overwhelmed. Rather than stigmatizing these feelings, we can foster a supportive environment that encourages open conversations about mental health and seeks to connect individuals with the help they need. The Importance of Mental Health Support Mental health professionals—such as psychiatric nurse practitioners, psychiatrists, and therapists—play a crucial role in providing support to individuals in crisis. They are equipped with the training and experience necessary to understand the intricate layers of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and trauma, which can contribute to suicidal thoughts. Here’s how mental health professionals can make a difference: Creating a Safe Space: A therapist, psychiatric nurse …

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Suicidal Thoughts: 6 Ways Mental Health Professionals Can Help

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Medically Reviewed by Mark Hrymoc, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, double-board certified in General & Addiction Psychiatry Suicidal thoughts can be a heavy burden to carry, yet they are more common than many realize. If you or someone you know is experiencing these thoughts, it’s important to recognize that you are not alone. Understanding this reality can be the first step toward healing and safety. The Commonality of Suicidal Thoughts Many people face periods in their lives where they feel overwhelmed, hopeless, or trapped. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), in 2021, nearly 12 million adults in the U.S. seriously considered suicide, highlighting the prevalence of these thoughts across various demographics (NIMH). Recognizing that these feelings are common is crucial. It helps to normalize the conversation around mental health, reducing stigma and encouraging individuals to seek help. How Mental Health Professionals Can Help Mental health professionals play a …

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National Suicide Prevention Month

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By Ashley Barnes   What is National Suicide Prevention Month? National Suicide Prevention Month spans the entirety of September with the goal of uniting mental health professionals, prevention organizations, survivors, allies, and community members to promote suicide prevention awareness; this is achieved through educating others with the use of resources, research, and powerful stories. September also hosts National Suicide Prevention Week from September 4th through September 10th as well as World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10th. Suicide Prevention. It is important to recognize warning signs of suicide as well as understand it’s prevalence in order to work towards suicide prevention. Suicide describes the act of ending one’s own life. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States (CDC, 2021). Research has found that around 46% of people who die by suicide have a known mental health …

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